Pathfinder scheme Review

Linklaters made us feel comfortable. I really enjoyed the workshops and the cooking social event. It was a positive experience and I'm glad I attended it. I would recommend the insight scheme to anyone who wants to know more about commercial law and Linklaters.

Linklaters seems like a friendly firm that values relationships. I felt valued because of the friendliness and upbeat personalities of the graduate recruitment team. They were genuinely helpful and positive.

The graduate recruitment team or trainees or other solicitors were there throughout and we could ask them questions. With regards to job-shadowing, I felt that the trainees could have been advised on a more structured way of helping us learn more during the limited time we had but it is understandable that they have to carry on with their normal routine.

I have a greater insight into what it would be like to work for a leading law firm. The workshops and talks are helpful in developing my skills in networking, negotiation, communication and applying to law firms. I also feel an affinity with Linklaters now.

The two-day experience was well-structured. There were sufficient breaks and variation in the workshops and talks to stave off tiredness. The activities were engaging and fruitful. The start and end times were reasonable.

The graduate recruitment team made us feel really welcome at the firm. The trainees were happy to interact and share what they experienced and what they feel working at the firm. The atmosphere of the scheme itself was positive but relatively relaxed.

They brought in some of their partners and trainers to give us talks and hold workshops. Some of these were really helpful and I believe much effort went into them. Overall the organisation of the scheme was smooth and well-coordinated.

The trainee I job-shadowed tried to explain to me his daily routine. I also saw the office layout. When talking to the trainees they also sketched out the expectations and culture of the firm. Though it was a short scheme, I felt much more acquainted with the firm.

I wish there was more time for us to job-shadow the trainees. However there were many networking opportunities provided when trainees showed us around the firm and had dinner with us which helped with understanding the company culture.

The image presented was really positive and welcoming. I would have liked more time in the actual work environment, perhaps with some structured tasks. However, the talks and workshops gave a valuable insight into commercial law and give us an idea of commercial awareness.

The two-day scheme was unpaid, which is reasonable. For transportation, reimbursement is provided when you submit receipts. Those living outside London were also provided with accommodation and transport to the hotel.

There were quite a few trainees on both the first and second days. I think trainees are able to provide a good insight because they have recently joined the firm and can provide their experiences which are fresh in their memories.

There were various opportunities to talk to people. There were quite a few breaks where trainees were happy to chat. There was also dinner which was relaxed and informal. At job-shadowing there are also opportunities to ask questions.

There are many facilities at the office and various opportunities that trainees and solicitors can get involved in. I don't think there was a presentation specific to it but the trainees were able to share their own experiences.

Definitely a valuable experience which was both useful and fun. Came away with a positive impression of Linklaters.